International Society for Anthrozoology

International Society for Anthrozoology
Name	International Society for Anthrozoology
Founded	0 1991
Focus	Anthrozoology
Headquarters	United Kingdom
Website	https://www.isaz.net/

International Society for Anthrozoology. It is a learned society dedicated to the scientific and scholarly study of human-animal interactions, known as anthrozoology. Founded in 1991, it serves as a central hub for researchers from diverse fields including psychology, veterinary medicine, sociology, and ethology. The society promotes rigorous, evidence-based research to understand the complex relationships between people and animals across cultural and historical contexts.

History and founding

The society was formally established in 1991, emerging from growing academic interest in the multidisciplinary study of human-animal bonds. Key founding figures included researchers like James Serpell of the University of Pennsylvania, who authored influential works such as In the Company of Animals. The creation of the society was influenced by earlier scholarly efforts, including conferences organized by the Delta Society and research initiatives at institutions like the University of Cambridge. Its formation coincided with the increasing recognition of fields like animal-assisted therapy and the ethical considerations surrounding animal welfare.

Mission and objectives

The primary mission is to advance the study of human-animal interactions through scientific inquiry and scholarly exchange. Core objectives include fostering high-quality research, supporting interdisciplinary collaboration among scientists and practitioners, and disseminating knowledge to the public and policy makers. The society aims to provide a credible, academic counterpoint to anecdotal claims, emphasizing evidence from fields such as neuroscience, public health, and anthropology. It also seeks to inform practices in areas like veterinary behavioral medicine and conservation psychology.

Activities and publications

A central activity is the publication of the peer-reviewed journal Anthrozoös, a leading publication in the field established in 1987 and later adopted as the society's official journal. The society also supports the ISAZ Newsletter for member updates and facilitates special issues and scholarly books. It actively promotes early-career researcher development through awards and grants. Furthermore, the society engages in public outreach to translate research findings for broader audiences, influencing discourse in animal ethics and companion animal policy.

Conferences and events

The society organizes an annual international conference, a premier event rotating among global locations such as Stockholm, Sydney, and Orlando. These gatherings attract hundreds of researchers from institutions like the University of California, Davis and the Waltham Petcare Science Institute. The conference program features keynote addresses from prominent scholars like Megan Mueller, symposia, and poster sessions covering topics from animal cognition to human-wildlife conflict. Regional workshops and satellite meetings, sometimes in collaboration with organizations like the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations, are also held.

Organizational structure

Governance is provided by an elected Board of Directors comprising international scholars from various disciplines. Day-to-day operations are managed by an executive committee, including positions such as President and Secretary, with administrative support often based at a host institution like the University of Liverpool. Membership is open to academics, students, and professionals, with categories including regular, student, and affiliate members. Committees oversee critical functions such as conference planning, awards like the ISAZ Distinguished Scholar Award, and liaisons with other bodies such as the International Society for Applied Ethology.

Significance and impact

The society has played a pivotal role in establishing anthrozoology as a respected academic discipline, moving it beyond anecdote into the realm of empirical research. Its work has significantly influenced professional practices in veterinary science, social work, and zoo management. Research disseminated through the society has informed public policy debates on service animal laws, animal cruelty legislation, and biodiversity conservation strategies. By creating a sustained international network, it has fostered collaborative studies that explore the nuances of the human-animal bond across cultures, from Japan to Brazil.

Category:Learned societies Category:Anthrozoology Category:Organizations established in 1991